Pre-Installation and Planning

Parallel Connection

This is a Parallel connected SPD – not series connected. As outlined previously, an SPD ‘drains off’ excessive voltage from an electrical system. Because of parallel connection, installation of the SPD reasonably near the equipment to be protected is satisfactory.

Tip: It is very important that wiring leads be configured as short & straight as possible. Avoid long leads. Avoid sharp bends. Route SPD conductors in the same conduit. Leads do not have to be sized for the entire load – this SPD is parallel connected, not series connected. As a generalization, 6 AWG is satisfactory.

Figure 2: Typical Parallel Connected SPD on Electrical Panel

To Protected Loads

A B C

BREAKER

Precautionary Statement Regarding SPDs on Ungrounded Systems

Caution – Ungrounded systems are inherently unstable and can product excessively high line-to-ground voltages during certain fault conditions. During these fault conditions, any electrical equipment including an SPD, may be subjected to voltages which exceed their designed ratings. This information is being provided to the user so that an informed decision can be made before installing any electrical equipment on an ungrounded power system.

Cascade Surge Protection

For optimum surge protection, cascade or staged surge suppression should be implemented at the service entrance and downstream locations as appropriate. Known or expected surge sources, as well as sensitive loads, should also have localized surge suppression. For interconnected electronic loads (data cabling), SPDs should also be utilized to protect the devices on either end of the interconnecting data cables.

Unpacking & Preliminary Inspection

Inspect the entire shipping container for damage or signs of mishandling. Remove the packing materials and further inspect the unit for any obvious shipping damages.

If any damage was found and is a result of shipping or handling, immediately file a claim with the shipping company and forward a copy to Siemens TPS Tech Support.

Operating Environment

The standard unit uses a Type 1/12/3R/4 enclosure. Non-metallic polycarbonate 4X, stainless steel and Type 1 flush-mount or pull box enclosures are available as options. Before installing, ensure that your enclosure type and application are appropriate per NEMA 250 with regard to moisture, dirt, excessive dust, flammable materials or atmospheres, corrosive vapors, etc. Please consult factory if enclosure needs changed.

This SPD is designed to operate in an ambient temperature range of -40°C (-40°F) to +60°C (+140°F) with a relative humidity of 0% to 95% (non-condensing). Excessive temperature may inadvertently operate internal thermal overtemperature protectors.

On rare occasions in high temperature climates, SPDs inside clear-cover polycabonate enclosures have experienced internal temperatures exceeding 200°F (94°C). We recommend positioning the unit so that the clear front avoids direct summer sunlight by shading or not facing west.

Line Side versus Load Side Installation

The TPS3 12 & TPS3 15 family SPDs are tested and qualified as Type 1 SPDs per UL 1449 Third Edition and 2008 NEC. This SPD can be installed on the Line Side of the service overcurrent device per 2008 NEC Article

285.Type 1 SPDs may also be installed in Type 2 applications. As a generalization, it is more practical to install as Type 2 on load side of main overcurrent device for maintenance reasons. Such installations would be similar to traditional SPD installations. (Note: cUL models are Type 2 due to different cUL criteria.)

There may be circumstances where Line Side installation is desirable. Follow all applicable Code requirements for Line Side installation. We generally recommend that the SPD be installed with a disconnecting mechanism for servicing purposes.

Tip: Siemens TPS offers an optional Disconnect Switch that has been UL evaluated as part of the SPD. This includes SCCR and Line Side suitability. If you do not use the disconnect option, select a disconnect switch rated for line side (UL

98)having appropriate SCCR rating including any required overcurrent protection. This may be more time consuming and expensive than anticipated. The optional Disconnect Switch is fully engineered and almost certainly easier, smaller and less expensive. Please contact Siemens TPS Tech Support as appropriate.

Audible Noise

SPD background noise is negligible or non-existent, and does not restrict the location of installation.

Mounting, Dimensions, and Weight

The TPS3 12 & TPS3 15 series include enclosures and are intended for wall mounting. See Table 2 for details.